Zidane Iqbal guides Iraq to World Cup qualification after 40 years
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 9:07 AM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
Zidane Iqbal, a former Manchester United midfielder, has played a crucial role in helping Iraq qualify for the World Cup. This achievement marks Iraq's first appearance in the tournament in 40 years. Iqbal expressed his excitement about the milestone, describing it as a dream come true. The team's qualification is expected to boost the profile of soccer in Iraq and unite the nation during the global event.
- •Zidane Iqbal is a former Manchester United midfielder.
- •Iraq qualifies for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years.
- •Iqbal expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament.
- •The qualification is seen as a unifying moment for Iraq.
- 6:52 AMYahoo Sports — Meet the Iraq player set to make history for Pakistan
- 6:52 AMBBC Sport — Meet the Iraq player set to make history for Pakistan
"“It is going to be a dream come true and I cannot wait,” Zidane Iqbal tells Sky Sports. He is going to the World Cup and is understandably excited. The former Manchester United midfielder has helped Iraq qualify for the first time in 40 years.
"Zidane Iqbal, a former Manchester United player, will make history when he plays for Iraq this summer, becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to feature at a men's World Cup.
"Zidane Iqbal, a former Manchester United player, will make history when he plays for Iraq this summer, becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to feature at a men's World Cup.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 16, 2026, 6:52 AMMeet the Iraq player set to make history for Pakistan
Zidane Iqbal, a former Manchester United player, will make history when he plays for Iraq this summer, becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to feature at a men's World Cup.
- BBC SportJun 16, 2026, 6:52 AMMeet the Iraq player set to make history for Pakistan
Zidane Iqbal, a former Manchester United player, will make history when he plays for Iraq this summer, becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to feature at a men's World Cup.
- Sky Sports Football—Meet the former Man Utd midfielder who has helped Iraq reach the World Cup
“It is going to be a dream come true and I cannot wait,” Zidane Iqbal tells Sky Sports. He is going to the World Cup and is understandably excited. The former Manchester United midfielder has helped Iraq qualify for the first time in 40 years.
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